Kakum & the Central rainforest belt

The canopy walkway at Kakum is the headline, but the surrounding forest belt, including the Assin Manso river crossing and the small reserves near it, is what makes a full day. It suits anyone who wants a nature day without serious hiking, and families manage here easily.

Kakum's gate is about 30-40 minutes north of Cape Coast by taxi or shared taxi. From Accra it is a 3-3.5 hour drive, so most people base in Cape Coast and day-trip. Tro-tros run from Cape Coast's Kotokuraba station toward Abrafo, from where it is a short taxi ride to the visitor centre.

There is no practical public transport inside the park; arrange a taxi for the day or come on an organised tour. Distances between Kakum, Assin Manso and the coast look short on a map but run slow on the road, so group your stops into one loop.

• Arrive at opening or after 2pm. Mid-morning coach groups turn the canopy walkway into a slow shuffle.
• The walkway is safe but swaying and high; wear shoes with grip and leave loose items you would hate to drop.
• Rainforest rain is sudden and heavy, and a light poncho beats an umbrella on the narrow walkway.
• Pair Kakum with the Assin Manso Slave River Site for context; it is on the same road and rarely crowded.